A Sandwich a Day: Softshell Crab Sandwich at Market Lunch in Washington, D.C.

In this great country of ours, one could eat a different sandwich every day of the year—so that's what we'll do. Here's A Sandwich a Day, our daily look at sandwiches around the country. Got a sandwich we should check out? Let us know.—The Mgmt.

Eastern Market, a public market with indoor and outdoor stalls hawking everything from fresh produce and poultry to handmade jewelry to tarot readings, has been in operation for well over 130 years on Capitol Hill. The market is particularly busy on weekends, and no place has longer lines than the indoor hall's Market Lunch.

Come in on a Sunday for the famous blueberry buckwheat pancakes and you're out of luck—breakfast is only served on Saturdays before noon. Rather than attempting to get a table at one of the surrounding overcrowded brunch spots, try one of Market Lunch's seasonal Softshell Crab Sandwich ($9.95) instead.

It's exactly what it sounds like: a lightly fried softshell crab still hot from the fryer served open-face on a fluffy roll with romaine lettuce and a tomato slice (should you want it.) The crab itself actually tastes like crab, and while it could use a squeeze of lemon, it's probably one of the best (and cheapest) softshell crab preparations in the city. The homemade tartar and "pink" sauces look heavy, but either gives the sandwich a much needed vinegary and fresh kick.

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I was born and raised in the D.C. area, and after attending college in Boston and bumming around for a year or two, I'm back. I do research and analysis from 9-5. I spend the rest of the time eating, drinking, playing social sports like bocce or Skeeball, and driving my Mazda3 around the metro area, on the hunt for delicious food.

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